Dentist: Important Role They Play

No one likes the idea of going to the dentist, but it is important for yearly check-ups to ensure tooth and gum health and hygiene. Choosing a dentist, especially when moving to a new town, can be overwhelming. Some dental offices serve only adults or children, but a family dentist serves all age groups, making appointments easier for families by serving everyone in one location.

Your dentist is the first line of defense for your overall tooth and gum health, and can alert you to future problems before they become real, expensive problems. A typical visit consists of a routine check-up and cleaning, and can include dental x-rays and fluoride treatments. Most modern dental offices also offer whitening services. You may need a deeper cleaning or filling to remove decay, and usually it can be done in-office on the same visit. More extensive work is usually referred to a specialist, although some dentists choose to expand their training and offer these advanced services in-house.

Talking to neighbors, family, and friends about their experiences with local dentists can give you a good idea where to start. Most people will tell you if their dental experiences were good or bad, if they were comfortable, and if they came away satisfied with their visit. You can also look online on the American Dental Association's website for lists of local dentists and their qualifications. Some websites will even offer reviews of specific dental offices.

Once you have determined which doctor you will visit, you should schedule a new patient exam. This initial exam will give you a good idea of how the office works, how you interact with the dental assistants and the dentist, and how comfortable you are in the office. Asking questions about the dentist's qualifications and certifications will help you learn more about the services provided. You can also get an overview of your general dental health, and what work you will need done. It is also a good time to get a general idea of the fee schedule.

Some people feel more comfortable with sedation dentistry, and your initial visit will let you know if this is a service they provide. If you have children, you can also get a good idea of how the office interacts with children, and if they have special services to help very young children with their appointments. Some offices have television screens above the chair to help distract the patient during the exam, and some offer headphones to patients who are especially fearful. Other offices offer "happy gas" to help patients relax. It is important to find out what your dental office offers to help you feel at ease during your visits.

With the help of a little research and talking to neighbors, you can find a family dentist that will provide you and your family with all of the services you will require, and will help you keep your family's smiles happy and healthy throughout the years.